Queen Charlotte’s noise bylaw passed

Queen Charlotte’s noise bylaw passed it’s fourth reading and was adopted, although one councillor registered his dissent. Councillor Kris Olsen wanted his opposition registered at the April 18 council meeting. All other councillors voted for the bylaw. The noise bylaw received second reading March 21. The word “unreasonably” was added to the bylaw for this reading in various sections. For example, the bylaw preamble now states that the “Village of Queen Charlotte has the authority to regulate, prohibit and impose requirements in relation to noise that is liable to unreasonably disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of individuals or the public.” The addition of the word provides another filter, as it now places the bylaw enforcement officer (QC’s chief administrative officer Bill Beamish), in a decision making role. Councillor Olsen also objected to this change, citing concerns over future liability for the town. The bylaw enforcement process will still focus on getting neighbours to resolve conflicts before other action is taken in a dispute. The noise bylaw has been discussed since last May when councillors held a brown bag lunch about the topic. The bylaw sets weekdays between 11 pm and 7 am as quiet times and weekends from 11 pm to 9 am. For more details, contact the village.Copyright Haida Gwaii Observer 2011